Exercise device

ABSTRACT

An exercise device including a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs, the first and second legs having first and second apertures, respectively; a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, the shaft extending between the first and second legs and through the first and second circular apertures such that the proximal end is located beyond the first support leg, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; and one or more resistance mechanism connected to the shaft for providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft. A patient can rotatably move the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

One aspect of the present invention relates to an exercise device, and more specifically, an exercise device for the upper extremity.

2. Background Art

Physical therapy is routinely used to rehabilitate musculo-skeletal injures and atrophied body parts. Physical therapy includes the movement of body parts to increase the strength and function of body parts in need of rehabilitation. Exercise devices are commonly utilized to assist in the movement of body parts

For example, many exercise devices have been developed to aid in the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries to the upper extremity, such as the shoulder, forearm, elbow, and wrists. These devices aid in rehabilitating a variety of injuries, including, but not limited to rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, post wrist fracture weakness and stiffness, arm tendinitis and frozen shoulder.

There exists several such devices that address rehabilitation of specific regions of the upper extremity. For example, Sammons Preston Rolyan offers the Mr. Wrister product, which can be used to increase range of motion, strength and endurance of the upper extremity. Wrist exerciser products are also offered to allow patients to perform flexion and extension exercises. These products can strengthen grip and forearms. Forearm workout products are also offered to increase forearm pronation and supination, range of motion, strength and endurance. The devices thus described are not free standing units and require the patient to hold the device during use.

In light of the foregoing, what is needed is a portable, stand-alone exercise device for the upper extremity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, one aspect of the present invention provides an exercise device for the upper extremity. Another aspect of the invention provides an exercise device that is portable. It is a further aspect of the invention to provide a stand-alone exercise device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an exercise device is disclosed. The device includes a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs. The first and second legs have first and second apertures, respectively. The device includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The shaft extends between the first and second legs and through the first and second apertures such that the proximal end is located beyond the first leg. The shaft can be adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame. The device also includes one or more resistance mechanisms connected to the shaft for providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft. A patient can rotatably move the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, an exercise device is disclosed including a frame having first and second legs and a base extending there between for supporting the first and second legs. The first and second legs have first and second aperture, respectively. The device also includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The shaft extends between the first and second legs and through the first and second apertures of which the proximal end is located beyond the first leg. The shaft is adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame. The device also includes one or more means for resisting the rotational movement of the shaft, the means for resisting connected to the shaft. A patient can rotatably moves the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.

According to yet another embodiments of the present invention, an exercise device is disclosed. The device includes a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs, the first and second legs having first and second apertures, respectively; a shaft having a proximal and a distal end, the shaft extending between the first and second legs and at least partially through the first and second circular apertures, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; and one or more resistance mechanisms connected to the shaft and the frame for providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft. A patient can rotatably move the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an exercise device is disclosed having a leg having a pair of apertures, a shaft extending through the pair of apertures and substantially perpendicularly away from the leg to form first and second handles (the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame), a resistance mechanism connected to the shaft and located at least partially within the leg (the resistance mechanism providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft). A patient can rotatably move the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.

These and other aspects of the present invention will be better understood in view of the attached drawings and following detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the present invention which are believed to be novel are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The present invention, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further object and advantages thereof, may best be understood with reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 a is a fragmented side view of the exercise device of FIG. 1 with a portion of the second leg removed to reveal a resistance mechanism;

FIG. 2 b is a fragmented front view of an exercise device of FIG. 1 with a portion of the second leg removed to reveal the resistance mechanism;

FIG. 3 is an exercise device having a shaft extending beyond the second leg of the exercise device, upon which a torque wrench can be used to measure torque;

FIG. 4 is a single tower exercise device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exercise device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a fragmented side view of the exercise device depicted in FIG. 5 with a portion of the end housing removed to reveal the resistance mechanism;

FIG. 7 a is an exploded side view of the resistance wheel of the second embodiment in a first wound position;

FIG. 7 b is an exploded side view of the resistance wheel of the second embodiment in a second wound position;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's left wrist via flexion movement;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's left wrist via extension movement;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's right forearm via resisted pronation movement;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's right forearm via resisted supination movement;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's right shoulder via resisted lateral rotational movement; and

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device depicted in FIG. 1 to exercise the patient's right shoulder via resisted medial rotational movement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of an invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. Therefore, specific functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for the claims and/or as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

According to certain embodiments of the present invention, an exercise device for the upper extremity is disclosed. It should be understood that features of certain embodiments disclosed herein can be added to other embodiments or omitted depending on the implementation of the present invention. The device can be used by a patient to strengthen and rehabilitate portions of the upper extremity, including, but not limited to the shoulder, arm, forearm, and wrist. The device can also be used to measure range of motion and torque strength, for example, by means of a protractor attached to the device and torque wrench. The device includes a resistance mechanism and rotatable shaft for providing resistance to movements of portions of the upper extremity, for example, flexion and extension movement of the wrist, resisted pronation and supination movement of the forearm, and resisted lateral rotational movement and resisted medial rotational movement of the shoulder. The resistance mechanism can be used to passively stretch the joints (shoulder, forearm and wrist) by loading the resistance mechanism such that it will attempt to unwind and thus passively stretch the joint.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. Exercise device 10 includes frame 12 having first leg 14 and second leg 16. Legs 14 and 16 are generally perpendicular to the surface supporting exercise device 10 and generally parallel to each other. As depicted in FIG. 1, the height of first leg 14 is about equal to the height of second leg 16. Legs 14 and 16 have a generally rectangular cross-section, and in certain embodiments, a square cross-section. The dimensions of the cross-section of each leg is substantially equal, although deviations in these dimensions are acceptable in the practice of certain embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that legs 14 and 16 can also have other cross-sectional shapes, for example, cylindrical. In certain embodiments, the heights of legs 14 and 16 are in the range of about 2 feet to about 3 feet, and in other embodiments, the heights are about 30 inches. In embodiments where the cross-sectional shape of legs 14 and 16 is square, the sides of the squares can be in the range of about 3 inches and 5 inches, and in other embodiments, the sides are about 4 inches. Legs 14 and 16 can be formed from wood, plastic, metal, combinations thereof or any other structurally stable material. In certain embodiments, legs 14 and 16 are formed of vinyl plastic.

Frame 12 includes base 18 having first and second end portions 20 and 22 and extending portion 24. Base 18 can be used by a patient for placing their feet to add stability as the patient sits in front of exercise device 10. Base 18 can be formed from wood, plastic, metal, combinations thereof or any other structurally stable material. In certain embodiments, base 18 is formed of oak wood. In certain embodiments, the thickness, width, and length of base 18 can be in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inches, about 4 inches to about 8 inches, and about 24 inches to about 36 inches, respectively. In certain embodiments, the thickness, width, and length of base 18 is about 0.5 inches, about 6 inches, and about 26 inches, respectively.

Opposing triangle-shaped metal plates 26 and 28 are utilized to attach legs 14 and 16 to base 18. It will be understood that the plates can also have other shapes, e.g. rectangle or square. Each plate 26 and 28 has a rectangular foot section having one or more apertures for receiving a screw or other fastener which attaches to base end portions 20 and 22. An end of each leg 14 and 16 is fastened to metal plates 26 and 28 via fasteners, for example nuts and bolts 30 and 32. Metal plates 26 and 28 and corresponding fasteners provide a sturdy connection between legs 14 and 16, and base 18. Legs 14 and 16 include internally threaded plastic members 34 and 36, respectively, which are connected to each leg with a pair of opposing fasteners, for example bolts. Plastic members 34 and 36 function as pulleys for a resistance mechanism, as described in greater detail below. In other embodiments, the plastic members are solid and/or do not have internal threading, and can be connected to each leg using other means such as glue or snap fit. Frame 12 can also include end caps 38 and 40, attachable to the ends of legs 14 and 16 opposing the ends fastened to base 18. In certain embodiments, the end caps are square having sides of about 4 inches.

Leg 14 includes first circular aperture 42 located near the end of leg 14 opposing the end fastened to base 18, as shown in FIG. 1. Leg 16 includes a similarly situated aperture, referenced as second circular aperture 44. Apertures 42 and 44 have at least a diameter sufficient to receive a portion of shaft 46, which will be described in more detail below. In certain embodiments, the diameter of apertures 42 and 44 is in the range of about 1 inch to about 2 inches, and in other embodiments the diameter is about 1.75 inches. As depicted in FIG. 1, apertures 42 and 44 are oriented in an axial relationship to each other, wherein the axis is substantially perpendicular to the support surface, for example, the ground. Apertures 42 and 44 can formed when the leg is being formed, such as during a molding process. In other embodiments, the apertures can be formed by drilling. The apertures may also include brushes to reduce friction.

According to FIG. 1, shaft 46 includes internal member 48 and outer member 50. Internal member 48 can be a solid wooden dowel. Outer member 50 can be a plastic pipe secured to the surface of internal member 48 with an adhesive. Exercise device 10 includes shaft 46 having proximal end 52 adaptable for receiving functional attachments, such as handle 54, and extendable beyond first leg 14. Shaft 46 also includes distal end 56 extendable beyond second aperture 44. In other embodiments, shaft 46 extends beyond leg 16 through a third aperture opposing aperture 44 on leg 16, as depicted generally by arrow 57. Shaft 46 can also include portions 58 for receiving a resistance mechanism. Shaft 46 is adaptable for rotational movement relative to frame 12. As depicted in FIG. 1, shaft 46 is generally cylindrical. In certain embodiments, shaft 46 has a diameter in the range of about 1.0 inches to about 2.0 inches, and in other embodiments, has a diameter of about 1.75 inches. In certain embodiments, shaft 46 has a length of about 24 inches to about 28 inches and in other embodiments, has a length of about 26 inches. Shaft 46 can extend beyond first leg 14 any distance as long as the stability of exercise device 10 is maintained while being used as an exercise device in any of the various embodiments disclosed by the present invention. In certain embodiments, the extension distance is in the range of 4 inches to 8 inches. Shaft 46 typically extends beyond second leg 16 a sufficient distance such that a resistance mechanism can be properly secured adjacent to distal end 56 of shaft 46. In certain embodiments, this extension distance is in the range of about 1 inch to about 3 inches. Handle 54 includes grip portion 60 adaptable for gripping by a patient's hand and tubular portion 62 adaptable for sliding over a portion of the length of shaft 46 adjacent to proximal end 52. In certain embodiments, tubular portion 62 is secured to shaft 46 via bolt or quick release pin or other suitable attachment mechanism. Handle 54 can be formed of any suitable material, such as wood, plastic or metal. In certain embodiments, the patient grips shaft 46 during some exercises that can be carried out using exercise device 10.

Legs 14 and 16 include first and second slots 64 and 66 for receiving a portion of handles 68 and 70. Slots 64 and 66 include notches 72 and 74.

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are fragmented side and front views, respectively, of the exercise device of FIG. 1 with a portion of second leg 16 removed to reveal resistance mechanism 76. Resistance mechanism 76 includes non-elastic webbing portion 78 secured to shaft 46 with fastener 80, which can be offset from distal end 56 of shaft 46 towards proximal end 52. In certain embodiments, the offset is between about 1 inch and about 3 inches. Webbing 78 can have a width of about 1 inch to about 3 inches. Resistance mechanism 76 also includes flexible portion 82. According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 2 a and 2 b, flexible portion 82 is formed of flexible tubing, but can also be a spring. Webbing 78 and tubing 82 are connected at a connection point, via clamp 84. Flexible tubing 82 can be formed from a rubber tubing material or other elastic material, for example, a THERATUBE. As shown in FIG. 2 a, flexible tubing 82 is attached to adjustable handle 70 via loop bolt 86. Tubing 82 extends down and around pulley 36. Tubing 82 is connected to webbing 78 and is attached to clamp 84. Handle 70 is disengagably connected to slot 66, via lockable and unlockable nut 88, which allows the patient to adjust the height of handle 70. In certain embodiments, the height of handle 70, as well as handle 68, can be adjusted to three positions, up, down and middle.

It should be understood that resistance mechanism 76 as described in FIGS. 2 a and 2 b can also apply in form and function to the resistance mechanism housed in first leg 14, as shown particularly in FIG. 1 with handle 68. It should be understood that some embodiments of the present invention only include one resistance mechanism.

Adjusting the height of handles 68 and 70 can be used to vary the resistance profile to rotational movement of shaft 46 by adjusting the tension of the flexible members. For example, a resistance profile can be achieved by moving handle 70 to a down position closest to the support surface and handle 68 to an up position farthest from the support surface, thus providing a resistance mechanism for leg 14 with about maximum slack and a resistance mechanism for leg 16 with about maximum tautness. Another resistance profile can be achieved by moving handle 70 to an up position closest to end cap and handle 68 to a down position closest to the support surface, thus providing a resistance mechanism for leg 14 with about maximum tautness in a resistance mechanism for leg 16 with maximum slack. Both handles 68 and 70 can be in the up position for maximum tautness of both resistance mechanisms. Both handles 68 and 70 can be down for maximum slack of the resistance mechanisms housed in legs 14 and 16. It should be understood that handles 68 and 70 can be locked in middle positions, via notches 48 and 50, between the up and down positions to achieve different resistance profiles.

FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of the present invention having extending shaft 90, which extends beyond leg 16 through third aperture 92. End cap 94, secured to the distal end of shaft 90, can include a bolt for receiving the engagement end of torque wrench 96, which measures the torque generated by moving shaft 90. Protractor 98 can be affixed above third aperture to measure the angular movement of shaft 90. It will be understood that protractor 98 can also be affixed above or below all or some of the apertures receiving extending shaft 90. Torque wrench 96 can be used to calibrate resistance mechanism 76.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a single leg exercise device is disclosed and depicted in FIG. 4. Exercise device 100 includes leg 102 and shaft 104 having handle portions 106 and 108 for grasping by patients. The operation and structure of exercise device 100 is similar to exercise device 10, as disclosed above. Exercise device 100 can be used on a table, bed, stand alone, between the legs of a patient, or fixed to a wall. The device can be fixed to the wall at different heights to exercise the shoulder in different degrees of flexion and abduction.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exercise device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. Exercise device 110 includes frame 112 having first leg support 114 and second leg support 116 and brace member 118 extending therebetween. Leg supports 114 and 116 are generally perpendicular to the ground and generally parallel to each other. In other embodiments, the leg supports taper inwardly from the base toward the top of the device at a tapering angle, for example, about 30 degrees. As depicted in FIG. 5, the height of first leg support 114 is slightly greater than the height of second leg support 116, although the heights can be substantially equal or the height of support 116 can be greater than that of support 114. The widths and thicknesses of supports 114 and 116 are substantially equal, although deviations in these dimensions are acceptable in the practice of certain embodiments of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the heights of supports 114 and 116 are in the range of about 2 feet to about 4 feet. In certain embodiments, the widths of supports 114 and 116 are in the range of about 2 inches and 6 inches. In certain embodiments, the thickness of supports 114 and 116 are in the range of about 0.5 inches and 2.0 inches. Brace member 118 is generally perpendicular to supports 114 and 116 and generally parallel to the ground. In certain embodiments, the length of brace member 118 is in the range of about 2 feet and about 3 feet, although it should understood that any length can be used as long as exercise device 110 is stable for stand-alone use. In certain embodiments, the widths and thicknesses of supports 114 and 116 and brace member 118 are substantially equal to impart a uniform appearance to frame 112. Supports 114 and 116 and brace member 118 can be formed from wood, plastic, metal, combinations thereof or any other structurally stable material. Brace member 118 is fastened to supports 114 and 116 by positioning brace member 118 between supports 114 and 116 at a suitable height and orientation and driving two or more nails through supports 114 and 116 at the suitable height and through a portion of the length at each end of brace member 118, although other suitable fasteners can be utilized, such as brackets or staples.

First leg support 114 includes first circular aperture 120 located near the end of support 14 opposing the end of support 114 when frame 112 is in a free-standing position, as shown in FIG. 5. Second leg support 114 includes a similarly situated aperture, referenced as second circular aperture 122. Apertures 120 and 122 have at least a diameter sufficient to receive a portion of shaft 124, which will be described in more detail below. As depicted in FIG. 5, apertures 120 and 122 are oriented in an axial relationship to each other, wherein the axis is substantially perpendicular to the ground. In the case of wooden supports, apertures 120 and 122 can be formed in the supports with drill having a drill bit of suitable diameter. In the case of plastic supports, apertures 120 and 122 can formed while the supports are being formed, such as a molding process.

Exercise device 110 includes shaft 124 having proximal end 126 adaptable for receiving functional attachments, such as handle 128, and extendable beyond second support leg 116 and distal end 130 adaptable for receiving resistance mechanism 132 and extendable beyond first support leg 114. In certain embodiments, one or more resistance mechanisms can be attached anywhere along the length of shaft 145. Shaft 124 is adaptable for rotational movement relative to frame 112. As depicted in FIG. 5, shaft 124 is generally cylindrical and formed from wood. In certain embodiments, shaft 124 has a diameter in the range of about 0.5 inches to about 2.0 inches. Shaft 124 can extend beyond second leg support 116 any distance as long as the stability of exercise device 110 is maintained while being used as an exercise device in any of the various orientations disclosed by embodiments of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the extension distance is in the range of about 4 inches to about 8 inches. Shaft 124 typically extends beyond first leg support 114 a sufficient distance such that resistance mechanism 132 can be properly secured to distal end 130 of shaft 124. In certain embodiments, this extension distance is in the range of about 1.0 inches to about 3.0 inches. Handle 128 includes grip portion 134 adaptable for gripping by a patient's hand and tubular portion 136 adaptable for sliding over a portion of the length of shaft 124 adjacent to proximal end 126. In certain embodiments, tubular portion 136 is secured to shaft 124 via an epoxy glue or removable pin system. Handle 128 can be formed of any suitable material, such as wood, plastic or metal.

According to FIG. 5, tubular sleeve 138 is secured over a portion of shaft 124, via epoxy glue or other fastening device. Tubular sleeve 138 can extend beyond supports 114 and 116 through apertures 120 and 122. The inner diameter of tubular sleeve 138 is slightly greater than the diameter of shaft 124 so that a tight fit between the two elements can be achieved. Tubular sleeve 138 can have various outer diameters to provide various grip sizes for the device. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, tubular sleeve 138 is adaptable to receive resistance mechanism 132, although other embodiments of the present invention include a direct connection between shaft 124 and resistance mechanism 132. In such embodiments, the patient grips shaft 124 during some exercises that can be carried out using exercise device 110.

Exercise device 110 also includes base support member 140, which extends beyond first support leg 114 to provide extension portion 142. Base support member 140 can be used for a patient to place their feet to add stability as they sit in front of the exercise device. In certain embodiments, the thickness and width of support member 140 is substantially equal to that of supports 112 and 114 and brace member 116. The length of extension portion 142 (and base support member 140, for that matter) can be any length as long as the stability of exercise device 110 is maintained while being used as an exercise device in any of the various orientations disclosed by certain embodiments of the present invention. Exercise device 110 also includes end housing 144 for at least partially enclosing resistance mechanism 132. End housing 144 is connected to first leg support 114 and extension portion 142.

FIG. 6 is a fragmented side view of the exercise device of FIG. 5 with a portion of end housing 144 removed to reveal resistance mechanism 132, which includes resistance wheel 146. Resistance wheel 146 is generally cylindrical in shape and has an inner diameter that is substantially equal to the outer diameter of sleeve 138 and an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter. Resistance wheel 146 includes lip 148, as depicted in FIGS. 7 a and 7 b. As shown by FIGS. 7 a and 7 b, resistance wheel 146 is connected to shaft 124 with screw bolt 150, which extends through an aperture in the center of resistance wheel 146 and embeds into the distal end of solid wooden shaft 124. An epoxy glue or other fastener can be applied to the inner diameter of resistance wheel 146 to secure it to distal end 130 of shaft 124. It should be understood that the fastening material can also be applied to distal end 130 of shaft 24.

With reference to FIGS. 6, 7 a, and 7 b, first and second chains 152 and 154 are secured to the resistance wheel 146 with screw and bolt fasteners 156 and 158, respectively. The screws extend through a link of the chain and an aperture in resistance wheel 146 and the bolt is threadily connected to the screw and rests upon the inner diameter of resistance wheel 146. It should be understood that a notch may be made at the edges of distal end 130 of shaft 124 to accommodate the screw end and bolt. Ends 160 of first and second chains 152 and 154 are interconnected with clasp 162, which also connects end 164 of flexible member 166 to ends 160. Flexible member 166 can be formed from a rubber tubing material or other elastic material. As shown in FIG. 6, flexible member 166 is threaded through pulley mechanism 168, which is threadily connected to extension portion 142. End 170 of flexible member 166 is secured to screw hook 172, which is threadily connected to end housing 144.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, flexible member 166 can be replaced by a number of springs having a variety of resistance profiles. On end of each spring can be secured to ends chains 152 and 154, while the other end of each spring can be secured to a clasp secured at a location of end housing 144. Each clasp can be secured at different locations of the end housing 149 based on the length of each spring. The patient can change the resistance profile by engaging or disengaging one or more springs from the clasps. By engaging the pin(s), one or more springs are utilized to provide resistance to movement of shaft 124. As can be appreciated, a wide variety of resistance profiles can be produced by using a number of springs having a variety of widths and lengths.

Referring again to FIGS. 7 a and 7 b, FIG. 7 a shows the result of moving shaft 124 in a clockwise position from steady state position shown in FIG. 6 to the first wound position shown in FIG. 7 a. FIG. 7 b shows the result of moving shaft 124 in a counterclockwise position from steady state position shown in FIG. 6 to the second wound position shown in FIG. 7 b. In either scenario, the patient imparts torque upon shaft 124 to cause rotation movement, which is resisted by flexible member 166 and affected by any strain caused by the material used for shaft 124. This movement is equally applicable to shaft 46.

FIGS. 8 through 13 depict a variety of upper extremity movements that can be accomplished by using exercise devices provided for by embodiments of the present invention. The movements depicted in FIGS. 8 through 13 are merely illustrative of the many exercises that can be performed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's left wrist via flexion movement. In certain embodiments, the patient can either stand or sit in front of one of the long sides of exercise the device. The patient can grip the shaft with one or both hands. As depicted in FIG. 8, the patient is gripping the shaft with both hands, and the patient's left hand is being exercised, although the right hand or both hands may also be exercised in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The patient's right hand shows the starting position for gripping the shaft to exercise a patient's wrist via flexion movement. The palm of the hand is substantially parallel to the surface supporting the exercise device. The fingers are substantially perpendicular to the surface supporting the exercise device. The patient begins the flexion movement of the wrist by gripping the shaft while rotating the hand away from the body from the starting position to the ending position depicted by the patient's left hand of FIG. 8, thus causing rotation of the shaft which is resisted by the resistance mechanism. Arrow 302 shows the direction of rotational movement. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's hand can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia as described above. As depicted by FIG. 8, the ending position for the patient's left hand can have the patient's palm substantially perpendicular to the surface supporting the exercise device and the patient's fingers wrapped around the shaft. It should be understood that the exact ending position depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the specific exercise and the patient's range of movement of the wrist.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's left wrist via extension movement. In certain embodiments, the patient can either stand or sit in front of one of the long sides of the exercise device. The patient can grip the shaft with one or both hands. As depicted in FIG. 9, the patient is gripping the shaft with both hands, and the patient's left hand is being exercised, although the right hand or both hands may be exercised in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The patient's right hand shows the starting position for gripping the shaft to exercise a patient's wrist via extension movement. The palm of the hand is substantially parallel to the surface supporting the exercise device and the fingers are substantially perpendicular to the surface supporting the exercise device. The patient begins the extension movement of the wrist by gripping the shaft while rotating the hand towards the body from the starting position to the ending position depicted by the patient's left hand of FIG. 9, thus causing rotation of the shaft which is resisted by the resistance mechanism. Arrow 304 shows the direction of rotational movement. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's hand can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia, as described above. As depicted by FIG. 9, the ending position for the patient's left hand can have the patient's palm substantially perpendicular to the surface supporting the exercise device and between the shaft and the patient's body. The patient's fingers are wrapped around the shaft. It should be understood that the exact ending position depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the specific exercise and the patient's range of movement of the wrist.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's right forearm via resisted pronation movement. In certain embodiments, the patient sits on a support structure adjacent to the handle of the exercise device to carry out the resisted pronation movement exercise. The support structure can be chair 306. As depicted in FIG. 10, the patient uses an overhand grip of the handle with the right hand, although it is understood that a patient can use the device to exercise the left hand in this fashion. The patient begins the pronation movement by gripping the handle while rotating the forearm to the right or left, thus causing the shaft which is resisted by the resistance mechanism. Arrow 308 shows the direction of movement to the left. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's hand can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia, as described above.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's right forearm via resisted supination movement. In certain embodiments, the patient sits on a support structure adjacent to the handle of the exercise device to carry out the resisted supination movement exercise. The support structure can be the chair. As depicted in FIG. 11, the patient uses an underhand grip of the handle with the right hand, although it is understood that a patient can use the exercise device to exercise the left hand in this fashion. The patient begins the supination movement by gripping the handle while rotating the forearm to the right or left, thus causing the shaft which is resisted by resistance mechanism. Arrow 310 shows the direction of movement to the right. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's hand can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia, as described above.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's right shoulder via resisted lateral rotational movement. In certain embodiments, the exercise device is placed on its side such that the end housing or a leg rests against the support surface, for example, the floor of a rehabilitation facility. In such embodiments, the shaft is substantially perpendicular to the support surface, as shown in FIG. 12. As depicted in FIG. 12, the patient is in a standing position during the exercise in such a manner that the limb being exercised is in alignment with the shaft. The patient can grip the handle with either hand. As depicted in FIG. 12, the patient grips the handle with the patient's right hand. The patient begins the lateral rotational movement of the shoulder by gripping the shaft while rotating the shoulder away from the body, thus causing rotation of the shaft which is resisted by the resistance mechanism. Arrow 312 shows the direction of rotational movement. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's shoulder can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia, as described above.

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a patient using the exercise device to exercise the patient's right shoulder via resisted medial rotational movement. In certain embodiments, the exercise device is placed on its side such that end housing or one of the legs rests against the support surface, for example, the floor of a rehabilitation facility. In such embodiments, the shaft is substantially perpendicular to the support surface, as shown in FIG. 13. As depicted in FIG. 9, the patient is in a standing position during the exercise in such a manner that the limb being exercised is in alignment with the shaft. The patient can grip the handle with either hand. As depicted in FIG. 13, the patient grips the handle with the patient's right hand. The patient begins the medial rotational movement of the shoulder by gripping the shaft while rotating the shoulder towards the body, thus causing rotation of the shaft which is resisted by the resistance mechanism. Arrow 314 shows the direction of rotational movement. The amount of rotational movement imparted on the shaft by the patient's shoulder can be measured in degrees by the pin and rotational indicia, as described above.

While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. An exercise device comprising: a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs, the first and second legs having first and second apertures, respectively; a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, the shaft extending between the first and second legs and through the first and second apertures such that the proximal end is located beyond the first leg, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; and one or more resistance mechanisms connected to the shaft for providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft, wherein a patient rotatably moves the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.
 2. The exercise device of claim 1 further comprising a handle connected to the proximal end of the shaft.
 3. The exercise device of claim 2 further comprising a hexagonal nut for connecting the handle to the proximal end of the shaft.
 4. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the resistance mechanism further includes an elongated resistance system attached to the shaft and the frame.
 5. The exercise device of claim 4 wherein the elongated resistance system includes a flexible member.
 6. The exercise device of claim 5 wherein the flexible member is one or more springs or one or more rubber tubes.
 7. The exercise device of claim 6 wherein the one or more springs are attachable to the shaft and the frame.
 8. The exercise device of claim 6 wherein each of the one or more springs has a measurable resistance.
 9. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein one of the one or more resistance mechanisms is contained within the first leg.
 10. The exercise device of claim 4 wherein the elongated resistance system includes a portion of non-flexible webbing.
 11. The exercise device of claim 1 further comprising one or more pulleys for receiving the one or more resistance mechanisms.
 12. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein either the first or second leg includes a number of rotational indicia around at least a part of the circumference of the corresponding circular aperture.
 13. The exercise device of claim 12 further comprising a pin connected to the shaft in at least partial alignment with the number of rotational indicia such that the amount of rotational movement is measurable when the shaft rotates relative to the frame.
 14. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the frame is formed from molded plastic.
 15. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the shaft is formed from molded plastic.
 16. The exercise device of claim 2 wherein the handle is adapted to be grasped by a hand of the patient.
 17. The exercise device of claim 1 wherein the one or more resistance mechanisms are a first and second resistance mechanism.
 18. An exercise device comprising: a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs, the first and second legs having first and second aperture, respectively; a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, the shaft extending between the first and second legs and through the first and second apertures of which the proximal end is located beyond the first leg, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; and one or more means for resisting the rotational movement of the shaft, the means for resisting connected to the shaft; wherein a patient rotatably moves the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.
 19. An exercise device comprising: a frame having first and second legs and a base extending therebetween for supporting the first and second legs, the first and second legs having first and second apertures, respectively; a shaft having a proximal and a distal end, the shaft extending between the first and second legs and at least partially through the first and second circular apertures, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; and one or more resistance mechanisms connected to the shaft and the frame for providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft, wherein a patient rotatably moves the shaft to exercise one or more body parts.
 20. An exercise device comprising: a leg having a pair of apertures; a shaft extending through the pair of apertures and substantially perpendicularly away from the leg to form first and second handles, the shaft adaptable for rotational movement relative to the frame; a resistance mechanism connected to the shaft and located at least partially within the leg, the resistance mechanism providing resistance to the rotational movement of the shaft, wherein a patient rotatably moves the shaft to exercise one or more body parts. 